It’s no secret that wellness seekers love to travel. Destination spas, yoga retreats and luxury wellness resorts invite their guests to unwind, meditate and disconnect from urban stresses, and their popularity is growing.
But times are changing, and so have the needs of people looking for more adventure and authenticity. We want to combine our passions with favourite destinations, while staying active and perhaps leaving in better shape than when we arrived. It’s not enough to just be pampered at a retreat — we’re demanding more culturally-relevant activities and natural fitness experiences.
If you’re looking for more than the standard resort experience, there are some unique options to be found in the active travel marketplace. When planning your wellness vacation, here are a few tips to consider:
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Do your research. Make sure the trip you are booking offers activities at an intensity level that’s appropriate. Professional operators will be able to help you decide if a trip is right for you.
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Look for opportunities where you can learn. Going to a hotel gym at a resort won’t teach you much, but a chance to train outdoors with a qualified coach will give you lots of ideas to take home.
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Explore new passions. Like to cook or learn new languages? Some fitness vacations combine special interests with daily exercise to keep you healthy and fulfilled.
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Ease into you new environment, especially in hot weather. It can take a few days to become accustomed to physical activity in conditions you’re not used to. Workouts done in the morning are best.
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Take time to get acquainted with the local culture and its people. While it’s easy to just stay on a resort or spa, you won’t get the feel of a special destination without some cultural context.
If the idea of staying active while getting off the beaten path sounds like it might be a good fit for you, here’s an upcoming opportunity in Greece:
Travels By Nature (travelsbynature.com) is a 10-day natural fitness and cultural adventure in rural Greece. The program includes morning workouts, mountain treks and daily mobility training — authentically situated off the tourist treadmill in the mountain villages of mainland Greece. A look at traditional diet factors, cooking healthy Greek food, and even the chance to learn a few Greek dances will also be included. Travels by Nature is a unique combination of fitness and folklore, inclusive of traditional accommodations, guides, meals and all domestic transportation.
The next trip is from July 18-28, 2015 and is currently booking. For more information, visit www.travelsbynature.com